Palm Springs isn't just a haven of sunshine, iconic midcentury architecture, and sparkling pools; it's a vibrant culinary destination where every meal tells a story. From celebrity-chef driven experiences to beloved local haunts, the city’s dining scene is as dynamic and inviting as its desert landscape. Whether you’re a long-time visitor or a first-timer, preparing for the busy season from January to April, or enjoying the unique charm of a summer visit, you'll discover a world of flavors waiting to be explored.
Our flagship guide is your definitive map to the best bites in Palm Springs, connecting you to every type of dining experience imaginable. We've updated our selections to bring you the freshest recommendations, adding exciting newcomers like Liv's at the Palm Springs Art Museum, Mr Parker’s, and Babe’s Smokehouse Tavern in Indio, ensuring you're always in the know.
Indulge in Unforgettable Fine Dining & Upscale Experiences
Palm Springs excels at delivering memorable evenings, offering restaurants where exceptional cuisine meets impeccable service and sophisticated ambiance. These are the places where every detail, from the cocktail presentation to the dessert, is crafted to perfection.
Elevated Evenings and Glamorous Dinners
Step into a bygone era of glamour at Mr. Lyons, a beautifully renovated steakhouse that has graced Palm Springs since 1945. Here, you can savor prime rib, Akaushi rib eye, or a vegetarian Wellington in a truly elegant setting, perfect for martinis and people-watching. For an experience that truly transports you, Mister Parker’s demands a reservation and a sense of occasion. Guests are encouraged to dress smartly for an evening of immaculate service, guided by a maître d' and sommelier, enjoying Chef Pedro Baroso’s exquisite three-course menu featuring dishes like tableside beef tartare and prime filet with bone marrow butter. This is truly where the magic happens.
For a taste of Italy with a Californian twist, Birba offers homemade pasta and pizzas (including a cauliflower crust option) on a beautifully misted patio, ideal for lingering over inventive cocktails like the Hello Nancy. And for something new and bright, Alana Bar + Tapas, opened in 2024 by Alana Coffin of the renowned Las Casuelas family, delights with its Tulum-like dining room, focusing on additive-free mezcal and tequila cocktails alongside delicious shared plates like carne asada beef tartare and fresh tacos.
If you're looking to elevate your evening with exquisite flavors and a sophisticated atmosphere, you'll want to dive deeper into our dedicated guide to Fine Dining & Upscale Experiences for more stellar recommendations.
Savor Local Flavors with Casual & Budget-Friendly Eateries
Not every meal needs to be a grand affair to be utterly delicious. Palm Springs is brimming with fantastic spots where you can enjoy hearty portions, unique flavors, and a relaxed atmosphere without breaking the bank.
Delicious Dining That Won't Break the Bank
For a true Palm Springs institution, Sherman's Deli & Bakery has been serving up kosher classics since the 1950s. Their sprawling six-page menu is a treasure trove of chopped liver, latkes (don't miss the latke sandwich!), and incredible early bird specials. It's comfort food at its finest. If you're craving classic American fare with a retro twist, The Heyday, converted from JJ’s Mexican Oasis, offers a 1970s diner feel with fantastic smash burgers, fried chicken sandwiches, and wings, all at great prices.
Further afield in Indio, Babe’s Smokehouse & Tavern is a must-visit for groups with a big appetite. Their beautifully smoked brisket, ribs, and pulled pork come with generous sides, all designed for sharing. Another Indio gem, Gabino’s Creperie East, expanded into a spacious dining room in 2024, serving up savory crepes with unconventional fillings like barbecue chicken and chopped cheese, alongside gluten-free and dairy-free options. Back in Palm Springs, Elmer’s Restaurant stands out with its Pacific Northwest origins, offering expansive portions of fluffy buttermilk pancakes and cinnamon roll pancakes, providing quick service and reasonable prices. And for modern Mexican with an eye on value, Low Desert Modern Mexican inside Smoke Tree Village offers happy hour cocktails and margaritas under $9, alongside tasty tacos and hearty albondigas to take home.
To discover more places where you can Eat well, spend less. Explore budget-friendly restaurants that deliver big on taste without the hefty price tag, check out our curated list.
Kickstart Your Day: Breakfast, Brunch & Cafe Culture
Palm Springs understands the art of a leisurely morning. From artisanal coffee shops to bustling brunch spots and serene museum cafes, you’ll find the perfect start to your day.
Mornings Made Delicious
Start your day with exceptional coffee at Cartel Roasting Co, an Arizona-based chain at the Arrive hotel, renowned for roasting some of the best beans in Coachella Valley. Their cold brew lemonade and strong cappuccinos are local favorites. For a taste of Paris, Peninsula Pastries Palm Springs is a popular spot where locals and visitors queue for flaky kouign amann, chocolate croissants, and baguettes made with imported French butter and flour.
No Palm Springs brunch list is complete without Cheeky's, famous for its bustling atmosphere, chilaquiles, gluten-free pancakes, and the legendary rotating flavored bacon flight. Pair it with a Bloody Mary for the ultimate weekend treat. For bagels that consistently draw long lines, Townie Bagels delivers daily, with co-owner Andy Wysocki crafting highly-regarded bagels, sourdough bread, and tempting cookies. And for a unique daytime experience, Liv’s Palm Springs, located on the lower level of the Palm Springs Art Museum, offers an art-filled interior and a lovely outdoor patio where you can enjoy Chef Gabriel Woo’s inventive menu, from chicken fried steak to lobster rolls. For a chic start to your day that extends late into the evening, Norma's caters to both locals and travelers with its stylish ambiance.
Whether you’re an early riser or a brunch enthusiast, our comprehensive guide to Breakfast, Brunch & Cafe Culture will lead you to the best morning spots in the city.
Explore Diverse Global & Niche Cuisines
Palm Springs’ culinary landscape is a rich tapestry of international flavors and specialized eateries, offering exciting options for every palate.
A World of Flavors to Discover
Dive into the vibrant Vietnamese Californian flavors of Rooster and the Pig, where reservations are highly recommended. Their menu is an explosion of bold tastes in colorful cocktails, spicy chile okra, shaking beef, and caramelized butternut squash – always starting with a small serving of porridge. For authentic Mexican cuisine, Delicias Mexican Cuisine offers colorful plates from mole enchiladas to the impressive molcajete, filled with grilled meats and fresh accompaniments. Their breakfast offerings, like huevos rancheros, are also not to be missed.
Beyond these, you’ll find the aforementioned Sherman’s Deli & Bakery providing classic kosher deli fare, and Gabino’s Creperie East introducing a unique take on crepes with savory and sweet options.
If you’re eager to Explore diverse global cuisines and find hidden culinary gems, our in-depth pillar guide is your perfect starting point.
Embrace the Outdoors: Pet-Friendly Dining Options
Enjoying Palm Springs’ beautiful weather often means dining al fresco, and many establishments welcome your furry friends. These spots make it easy to enjoy a meal outdoors with your beloved canine companion.
Dining Under the Sun (and Stars) with Your Furry Friend
Boozehounds, situated on the northwest end of Palm Springs, is a standout for pet owners, offering a dedicated outdoor bar specifically for guests with dogs. Their menu features delicious dishes like garlic noodles, Filipino-inspired rice bowls, and 48-hour marinated seabass fish and chips. It's the ultimate spot to dine out with your best friend.
Many other restaurants embrace outdoor dining, even if not explicitly pet-focused. Liv’s Palm Springs offers a lovely outdoor patio with umbrellas, perfect for a relaxed daytime meal. Birba boasts a beautifully misted patio, ideal for cooling off while enjoying their Italian offerings. In Indio, Babe’s Smokehouse & Tavern provides ample outdoor seating with misters, ensuring comfort even on warmer days.
Ready to make plans that include your four-legged companion? Explore pet-friendly dining options Find outdoor patios that welcome both you and your pets.
Your Next Culinary Adventure Awaits
Palm Springs' dining scene is a testament to its vibrant culture, offering everything from storied steakhouses to modern cafes, international delights, and pet-friendly patios. We encourage you to use this guide as your starting point, delving into each pillar to uncover more specific recommendations tailored to your tastes and plans. Whether you’re seeking a glamorous evening, a quick and delicious bite, a leisurely brunch, or a global culinary journey, Palm Springs is ready to delight your palate.